15 January 2019
14.01.2019 - The Institute for Nature Protection of Kosovo immediately received the news about the killing of a wildcat (Felis Sylvestris) in the Ferizaj region, which is part of the list of strictly protected local wild species. Initially, this wildcat was mistakenly identified as a Balkan lynx (Lynx Lynx Balkanicus).
Immediately after receiving the information, the Institute for Nature Protection together with the Ministry of Environment, Spatial Planning and Infrastructure Inspectorate, engaged to take the appropriate measures according to the legislation in force. However, preliminarily, the Kosovo Forestry Agency, based on the competencies granted by the Hunting Law, notified the Kosovo Police, which in cooperation with the Prosecution Office are dealing with the case in question.
On this occasion, it should be mentioned and clarified that just like the lynx, the wildcat is also a strictly protected species, and its hunting is strictly prohibited by the laws in force, and according to the legislation, penalties including fines and imprisonment are foreseen for anyone who hunts these endangered or rare types of animals.
The Kosovo Institute for Nature Protection (IKMN) calls on all citizens of Kosovo to report any suspicious hunting activities against rare and legally protected species.
Through continuous monitoring of wildlife, IKMN, using camera traps and data from the field, has detected the presence of the wildcat in several habitats within the territory of Kosovo, and its condition is good.